Can you imagine starting every day knowing you're making a tangible impact on climate change through renewable energy solutions? That's the inspiring reality for John McNamara, Chief Operations Officer at Appalachian Renewable Power.

John is a force for positive environmental change. His passion for sustainability took him from a career path few would expect into a leadership role in the solar industry. Today, he champions innovative solar projects, such as Ohio's first-ever floating solar array, and works to make sustainability accessible to all. Learn about his journey, the power of intersectional environmentalism, and the ways we can all build a more sustainable future.

Episode in a glance

- John's unlikely start in sustainability and his focus on solving real-world problems
- Lessons from John's brother and overcoming the "pedigree" barrier
- Intersectional environmentalism and creating a sustainable world for everyone
- How John built a sustainability movement within a large organization
- Balancing patience and persistence when pushing for change in legacy organizations
- Aligning your values, joy, and work for maximum impact

About John McNamara

John McNamara is the Chief Operations Officer at Appalachian Renewable Power, a solar installation company in Ohio. He's passionate about solving environmental challenges and advancing renewable energy solutions equitably. Previously, John spearheaded sustainability initiatives at Nationwide, advocating for a dedicated department. His journey showcases aligning one's values and career for environmental impact.

Connect with John McNamara and learn more about ARP & Green Columbus

Website → https://arp-solar.com

Instagram → https://www.facebook.com/ARPSolar

Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ARPSolar

YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ARPSolar-cf3zv

Green Columbus → https://www.greencbus.org

What motivates someone to leave a 20-year corporate career in fashion to spearhead a sustainability revolution?

Lisa Goldsand, founder of the hyperlocal service Circular Thrift, shares how we can transform our fashion habits. With insights from her extensive corporate retail experience, she discusses challenges and opportunities within the industry and emphasizes consumer power in driving change. Lisa advocates for buying less, opting for quality pre-owned pieces, and embracing local clothing swaps to promote sustainability and community building.

Episode in a glance

- Lisa Goldsand's Sustainability Journey
- The complex challenges of the fashion industry.
- The story of Circular Thrift
- How your buying habits matter and what you can do to make a difference.
- How to become a sustainability conscious consumer
- The Future of Sustainable Fashion

About Lisa Goldsand

Lisa Goldsand is the founder of Circular Thrift, a convenient clothing pick and drop off service that also does community swap events. She has a unique background, having spent almost 20 years working at Abercrombie & Fitch in various roles related to apparel retail operations. During her corporate career, Lisa gained extensive experience working with garment manufacturers, mills, and factories, giving her an in-depth understanding of the traditional linear supply chain process. After leaving Abercrombie & Fitch, she started Circular Thrift, driven by a desire to address sustainability challenges in the fashion industry while empowering consumers to make a difference through their choices.

Learn more about Circular thrift here → https://www.circularthrift.org/